Exotic Rides: Tesla Roadster

When you see that automakers have named a car the Tesla Roadster, you might be inclined to believe that manufacturers have run out of names and resorted to ‘80s hair bands for inspiration. It can only be a matter of time before we see the Cinderella Sedan, the Winger Wagon and the Motley Crue Cab Pickup.

But, before you get your mullet out of joint, the Tesla Roadster is named after the inventor, physicist and engineer Nikola Tesla. And as you may deduce from this enlightenment, the Roadster is a pure electric car — not a hybrid, but one that runs solely on current. Oh, and it just happens to dash from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.0 seconds, which is quicker than the Lotus Elise on which the Tesla is based. Its top speed of greater than 130 mph and the 200-plus mile range represents a huge leap in the field.

So on paper, the Tesla Roadster has superior looks, speed and range compared to other electric vehicles (EV). Does this hold up in reality? It’s time for a closer look. I’m going to rate the Tesla relative to competitors based on two main categories: luxury, which encompasses design, performance and accessories; and practicality, and how the car stands up in day-to-day operation. Just how easy is it to be this green? Read on to find out.

the luxury ride

You won’t be disappointed by the Tesla Roadster — as long as you’re not anticipating the spaciousness and long list of power accessories found in a Maybach. You’ll be more at home if you think of the Tesla in relation to the Elise.

Outside and in, not much has been visually changed from the Elise, though modifications have been made for a beefier curb weight (about 2,690 pounds versus 1,984) and, blessedly, a bit more interior room. You only begin to really see the changes when you peek at the go-bits and discover the Energy Storage System (ESS), Power Electronics Module (PEM) and the electric motor where the mid-mounted internal combustion engine would usually reside. Along with a two-speed transmission, these systems seamlessly work together for amazing levels of efficiency and performance.

As I mentioned, it only takes about 4.0 seat-pinning seconds to hit 60 mph from a standstill, with a top speed north of 130 mph. That little three-phase, four-pole motor quietly sparks 248 horsepower and redlines at 13,500 rpm. Peak torque is a little over 200 lb-ft at zero, yes, 0 rpm and continues past 13,000 rpm. Point-and-shoot handling is courtesy of Yokohamas on 16-inch light-alloy rims in the front and 17s to the rear. Cross-drilled discs, AP Racing front calipers and Brembo rear calipers work with anti-lock brakes to bring the party to a halt in a hurry too.

Unlike other EVs, Tesla’s range per charge handily exceeds the ‘round-the-block distances previously accepted as the norm for the field. The Tesla is claimed to be good for up to 250 miles or so. Cross-country pilgrimages to Walley World in this are out, but it’s feasible for commuting, cruising, day trips, and generally surprising the hell out of most stoplight challengers.

The verdict

Tesla had the right idea when they selected the Lotus Elise as the basis for their electric Roadster. The platform’s inherent light weight was a key factor for development. It looks good to “gasaholics” and tree huggers alike. Plus it’s already had thorough testing and refinement; first as a production car, then as a Tesla. With great design, performance and integrity, buyers can look forward to a long-lasting relationship as they achieve the equivalent of 135 miles per gallon.